Summit Campground
4.0012 reviewsSummit Campground, Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest, Montana
Summit Campground
$10.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Campsite fees are $20/night for single units and $10/night for additional vehicles. Interagency Senior and Access Recreation Pass holders receive a 50% discount on Single Campsites physically occupied by the pass holder.
About this campground
Perched high in the majestic Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, Summit Campground offers 17 pristine campsites where the sky feels closer and the air tastes crisp with mountain freedom. Here, where paved parking aprons literally straddle the Continental Divide, you'll find yourself camping at the backbone of North America. The adjacent Memorial Square, a touching tribute to President Theodore Roosevelt and the Blackfeet tribe, adds historical depth to your mountain escape. Adventure beckons via a scenic 3-mile spur trail that connects directly to the legendary Continental Divide Scenic Trail, inviting you to explore some of the continent's most spectacular high-country terrain. This pack-it-in, pack-it-out wilderness retreat challenges visitors to leave only footprints while taking home unforgettable memories.
Summit Campground is a small, rustic campground suitable for tent camping and small vehicles. It does not accommodate RVs or offer specialized camping options like glamping or cabins.
Historical SignificanceStep into living history at Memorial Square, where the legacy of President Theodore Roosevelt converges with the enduring spirit of the Blackfeet tribe. This sacred ground serves as a powerful reminder of America's complex past and the intersection of conservation, leadership, and indigenous heritage. A carefully crafted miniature of the Washington Monument stands as a unique alpine tribute, creating an unexpected link between the nation's capital and these wild mountain heights. The memorial invites quiet reflection on how these mountains have shaped both native peoples and the American conservation movement.
Weather and SeasonsMother Nature rules with dramatic flair at Summit Campground, where mountain weather writes its own script daily. Spring arrives tentatively, often dusting campsites with surprise snowfalls well into May, while autumn paints the landscape in gold before winter's early knock brings frost and flurries. Peak summer months reward patient visitors with gloriously warm days perfect for hiking, though mountain veterans know to pack layers—even July evenings can demand a cozy fleece. The elevation ensures that scorching heat never overstays its welcome, making this a refreshing refuge when valley temperatures soar.
ElevationAt 5,200 feet above sea level, Summit Campground delivers the authentic high-country experience that mountain enthusiasts crave. This elevation creates a natural air conditioning system that keeps summer temperatures refreshingly cool, typically 15-20 degrees lower than nearby valleys. The thin mountain air adds an invigorating edge to every breath, reminding you that you're camping in the clouds. While the altitude provides spectacular views and comfortable summer camping, it also means your morning coffee water takes a bit longer to boil—a small price for waking up above the world.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to a natural cathedral of towering conifers, their evergreen spires reaching toward Summit Mountain's distant peaks. The campground nestles within a thriving forest ecosystem where Douglas firs and lodgepole pines create a protective canopy overhead. Come summer, the forest floor explodes in a painter's palette of wildflowers—Indian paintbrush, columbines, and alpine forget-me-nots transform the understory into nature's own rock garden. The interplay of dappled sunlight through the pine boughs creates an ever-changing tableau, while Summit Mountain stands sentinel on the horizon, its rocky face catching the alpenglow at sunset in a daily spectacle that never grows old.
Geological RegionSummit Campground claims one of North America's most geologically significant addresses—right atop the Continental Divide in the storied Front Range of the Rocky Mountains. This ancient backbone of the continent tells a story written in stone over millions of years, where tectonic forces thrust these peaks skyward. The surrounding landscape showcases classic Rocky Mountain ecology, with dense conifer forests giving way to alpine meadows bursting with seasonal wildflowers. Here, every raindrop must choose its destiny—flowing either east toward the Atlantic or west to the Pacific. It's a place where geology becomes personal, where you can literally stand with one foot in each of North America's great watersheds.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground features wheelchair-accessible vault toilets. However, there is no further information on additional accessibility accommodations.
Sites SizeSpecific site sizes are not mentioned. Sites are mainly designed for tents and small vehicles.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary, with limited information on site spacing. One review mentioned noise from adjacent sites and nearby highways.
Total Campsites17 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites further from the highway for reduced noise. Bring mosquito repellent as reports suggest they are prevalent during summer.
Best CampsitesSite 15 is noted for its proximity to the highway, providing accessibility, but reviews highlight noise from vehicles and trains.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Open 24 hours/day.
Check-out
Open 24 hours/day.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact guest limits are not specified.
Groups
No group camping facilities are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground is composed of two unnamed loops.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, weather permitting.
Reservation PlatformsNo platforms available for reservations.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll 17 campsites are first-come, first-served with no reservation system in place.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are not accepted; all sites are first-come, first-served.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Summit Campground is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking and picnicking. A 3-mile spur trail connects the campground to the Continental Divide Scenic Trail and the Bob Marshall Wilderness. No swimming, fishing, or water-based activities are available. Limited recreational facilities might make it less attractive for casual visitors.
Hiking
The campground is near the Summit Cutoff Trail #133, a 3-mile trail suitable for day hikes, horseback riding, and mountain biking. It also connects to the Continental Divide Scenic Trail, providing access to extensive backcountry adventures.Biking
The Summit Cutoff Trail accommodates mountain biking. The terrain and skill requirements are not explicitly detailed.Winter Activities
Trail access for ORV/ATV is permitted from July 1 through April 1, which might include winter recreational usage.Water Sports
No water sports are available at this location.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfire restrictions may be enforced depending on seasonal fire warnings. Always check current fire restrictions before arrival.
Hazards
General hazardsFrequent bear activity necessitates strict food storage practices. Mosquitoes are commonly reported during summer.
Active alertsNo specific alerts provided, although seasonal fire and wildlife warnings apply.
Weather forecast
80
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 24%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 8.1 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Mainly clear
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Ranger station accessible by phone for emergencies; nearest comprehensive medical services and police likely located in East Glacier Park.
Good to know
Peak season datesLate spring to early fall. Peak season runs between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Trash and recyclingNo trash or recycling facilities are provided on-site. Visitors must follow a pack-it-in, pack-it-out policy.
Proximity to water featuresNo lakes, rivers, or water bodies within direct proximity. Potable water is not available on-site; campers must bring their own.
Common complaintsProximity to the highway results in noise from passing cars and trains. Vault toilets have been criticized for cleanliness issues.
HostCamp hosts are present but have mixed reviews on responsiveness and cleanliness management.
Campground Map
Summit Campground, Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest, Montana
Driving directionsFrom East Glacier Park, MT, take US Rt. 2 west 11.3 miles to campground sign. Turn left into campground.
Roads leading to the campground are paved. Accessibility is weather-dependent as the campground is open seasonally from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day.Nearby places
East Glacier Park: 11 miles (approximately 15 minutes by car)
St. Mary Glacier National Park entrance: 42 miles
West Glacier entrance: 46 miles.
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are likely available in East Glacier Park, approximately 11 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.0
12 reviews
Summit Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Summit Campground receives mixed reviews. Positive aspects include its affordability, cleanliness, and scenic location close to major attractions like Glacier National Park. Common complaints focus on noise from nearby highways and train tracks, as well as cleanliness of facilities.
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciated the affordability and convenience of the campground, especially its proximity to Glacier National Park. One camper commented, 'The campground was very clean and well maintained and...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Major complaints include noise from frequent train activity and the nearby highway. Several users also mentioned issues with the cleanliness of pit toilets. One reviewer stated, 'Nice campground but...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing mosquito repellent due to bugs and being prepared for noise from trains and highways. A reviewer advised, 'Be sure to bring repellent.' Another camper suggested the...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is open seasonally from late spring to early fall but is weather-dependent. Some campers reported colder temperatures at night, even in summer: 'Can get quite chilly at night, even in...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Nice campground but the hosts DO NOT KEEP THE PIT TOILET CLEAN.' 2. 'Clean, inexpensive national forest campground.' 3. 'Great campsite; cheap and easy to get a campsite.' 4. 'The campground was...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 15 was noted for being close to the highway, with noise from trains and cars. 'We had site 15, which was pretty close to the highway.' No other specific site reviews or ratings provided.
Based on 12 reviewsAccessibility Features
The vault toilets are wheelchair accessible. However, no additional feedback is available on accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 12 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Reviews did not include any specific feedback or experiences related to pets.
Based on 12 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025